The city of Akron is offering a new energy efficiency rebate in 2013. In addition to the appliance and commercial lighting rebates the city began offering in 2012, customers may now receive a rebate for purchasing a new Energy Star central air conditioner, air-source heat pump or geothermal heat pump.

Rebates are provided in collaboration with Akron’s wholesale power supplier, Heartland Consumers Power District, as part of their energy efficiency program, Power Forward.

Customers will be eligible for a $200 rebate for purchasing an Energy Star qualified central air conditioner or air-source heat pump and a $600 rebate for purchasing an Energy Star geothermal heat pump.

Electric air-source heat pumps use the difference between outdoor air temperatures and indoor air temperatures to cool and heat your home. Energy Star qualified heat pumps have higher SEER and EER ratings, as well as a higher heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) than standard models, making them about 9 percent more efficient than standard new models and 20 percent more efficient then what many homeowners currently use.

Geothermal heat pumps are among the most efficient and comfortable heating and cooling technologies currently available because they use the earth’s natural heat to provide heating and cooling. Energy Star qualified geothermal heat pumps are over 45 percent more energy efficient than standard options. In addition, through Dec. 31, 2016, homeowners who install Energy Star qualified geothermal heat pumps are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit.

Rebates are also still available for residential customers who replace an existing refrigerator, freezer, clothes washer or dishwasher with a new Energy Star model. Refrigerator and freezer replacements are eligible for a $100 rebate and proof of disposal of the old appliance must be provided. Clothes washer and dishwasher replacements are eligible for $50 each.

The City of Akron is also offering commercial and industrial customers rebates for replacing existing light fixtures with more efficient models. Rebates will be given for qualifying improvements to high bay, fluorescent and interior area lighting as well as upgrading exit signs to LED models. Other lighting upgrades may be considered for rebates, depending on potential energy savings.